M.E. Austin

I usually write things that are a little bit off-the-wall but which, hopefully, bear some passing resemblance to reality. "Jewel" is my first novel and I am currently writing the sequel to that, after which I intend to build up that world into a trilogy, if not (possibly) a series. Before I did all this, I was a humble and not very successful student, trying to write a PhD thesis and failing miserably. But, writing fiction was something that I always wanted to do, and now here I am, sharing it with the world. Enjoy.

Jewel

Fantasy

The kingdom of Sapphiria is in grave peril: its future hangs in the balance, and King Julius, its ruler, faces a dilemma. As he attempts to secure an heir to his throne his plans are thwarted by his eldest daughter, Crystal – who refuses to get married – his younger daughter, Persephone – who refuses to conform – and his only son, Luca – who refuses to do his duty.

When the King is kidnapped and the kingdom falls under the control of the dastardly Lord Mortimer, questions arise about just how secure this family is and just how far their loyalty to each other can be counted on in a time of crisis. As the danger closes in it is Crystal, Luca, and Persephone, who must work to save the kingdom and decide its future.

Jewel provides the reader with a rich and enthralling narrative, and brings together a collection of unique and idiosyncratic characters who cannot fail to bring delight to readers. If you love fantasy, you’ll love this!

Jewellica: The Apocrypha of Jewel

Fantasy/Short stories

For anyone who didn’t read the fantasy novel, JEWEL, these stories will come as introduction into this slightly mad and entirely dreamed-up world.

The fictional country of Sapphiria, run by the strong-willed and granite-hard ruler, King Julius, bears strong resemblances to the world that we know, but it is governed by a system reliant on the acquisition of precious stones that are, at various periods, deemed to be of greater value than all other gems. Royal dynasties have previously been founded on the worth of diamonds, emeralds, pearls, rubies and, more recently, sapphires. And, in theory, whoever has control over the jewel of choice can claim the crown. But, in this world there are many people who refuse to be governed, and many dangers awaiting the royal family.

In this collection of short stories we are introduced to some more of the outer-lying lands around the kingdom and given more detail on some of the peripheral characters featured in JEWEL. Find out about the childhood adventures of Princess Crystal and her siblings. Learn more about the singular character of Hermann Clock. Delight in the story of how Queen Ruby acquired her beloved pet armadillos. And look out, as well, for one or two hints about the imminent danger approaching the King and his family – to be continued in Book 2 of this exciting trilogy . . . Coming soon!

Oddities

Short Stories

A collection of slightly odd stories written by a slightly odd person. In the eight stories contained within this volume, you will be introduced to a man who opts to be put into an induced sleep in order to escape his life, a woman who sees her life in parallel with Alice in Wonderland, a writer who becomes confused about whether she is writing her character or vice versa, and many other weird and wonderful things besides. These stories are highly original and form the first collection for this writer – they are her attempt to send some of the oddities floating around her mind out into the world. She only hopes that you enjoy them.

I Author You

Short Story

A writer gets lost in her own story. But who is writing who?

*This story is also included in the collection, Oddities, by M.E. Austin*

The Shop at the End of the Road

Short Story

A story about life, death and customer service.

*This story is also included in the collection, Oddities, by M.E. Austin*

The Bloodfly and the Leech

Graphic Story/Short Story

A graphic story about a mother and daughter whose relationship comes to a head one fateful day.